Palm Springs has long been synonymous with architectural significance, luxury living, and a lifestyle that blends design, privacy, and natural beauty like nowhere else. From historic estates once owned by Hollywood icons to cutting-edge modern homes carved into the desert hills, this market continues to attract those seeking something truly exceptional.
In this special feature, we’re highlighting five of the most unique, luxurious, and architecturally significant homes currently available in Palm Springs—properties that go far beyond the ordinary. These are homes defined not just by price, but by pedigree, design, history, and an unmistakable sense of place.
At The Paul Kaplan Group, we specialize in Palm Springs luxury homes and understand that for many buyers, it’s not just about square footage—it’s about acquiring something rare and meaningful. As part of the Luxe Division of Bennion Deville Homes, we are deeply connected within the high-end market, giving our clients access to premier properties across the Coachella Valley.
In fact, some of the most coveted homes in Palm Springs never officially hit the market. Through our relationships and network, we often present off-market and pre-market luxury opportunities to our clients—homes that are quietly bought and sold before the public ever knows they were available.
Whether you’re drawn to historic significance, iconic architecture, or ultra-private estates, these five homes represent the very best of what Palm Springs has to offer at the highest level.
252 Ridge Rd., Palm Springs
$ 9,350,000
Set on 28 private hillside acres in Palm Springs’ Mesa neighborhood, this legendary 7-bedroom, 11-bath estate—once owned by Suzanne Somers—offers over 7,200 square feet of living space across a main residence and guest villas. Originally dating to the 1920s, the compound blends historic charm with dramatic architecture, featuring multiple terraces, gardens, and sweeping valley views.
A hillside funicular leads to the secluded estate, designed for both grand entertaining and peaceful retreat. Highlights include a chef’s dual kitchen with a built-in wine vault, richly detailed interiors with imported materials, and a luxurious primary suite that lives like a private apartment. The iconic Rock House, tied to Albert Frey, adds architectural significance.
The grounds feature an outdoor amphitheater, scenic trails, and numerous gathering spaces, making the property ideal as a private sanctuary or luxury rental.
Listed by Brady Sandahl Keller Williams Luxury Homes #01416687
2212 Winter Sun Dr., Palm Springs
$ 8,900,000
Located within Desert Palisades, The Woods House (2021) by Woods + Dangaran is a striking example of contemporary desert modernism, thoughtfully designed to integrate with its rugged hillside setting. Desert Palisades is one of Palm Springs’ newest and most architecturally ambitious developments—an exclusive, design-forward enclave in the foothills where custom homes by leading architects are carefully sited among natural boulder formations, emphasizing preservation of the landscape and cutting-edge modern design. Set above a natural arroyo and surrounded by boulders, the home appears to float lightly on the land while maintaining a strong connection to its environment. Clean horizontal lines, earth-toned materials, and expansive floor-to-ceiling glass create seamless indoor-outdoor living and frame panoramic desert views in every direction.
The residence is organized into two wings connected by a dramatic glass bridge, forming a central atrium visible throughout the home. The main living spaces open بالكامل to outdoor entertaining areas including a pool, spa, fireplace, and lounge, all designed to extend the living experience into the surrounding desert. Included in the offering is a second parcel with additional design plans by the same architects, presenting a rare opportunity to expand within one of Palm Springs’ most forward-thinking architectural communities.
Listed by Jeff Kohl The Agency #01095791
457 W Hermosa Pl, Palm Springs
$ 12,680,000
Set within the prestigious Old Las Palmas, Villa Paradiso is a rare 4-acre gated estate that captures the glamour and legacy of Palm Springs’ golden era. Old Las Palmas is one of the city’s most iconic and sought-after neighborhoods, known for its grand estates, celebrity history, and close proximity to downtown, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Mt. San Jacinto.
Originally built in 1928, this Spanish Revival compound has been meticulously preserved and expanded, including a guest house once built for Cary Grant—who also gave the estate its name. The property spans one of the largest residential parcels in the neighborhood and features four separate residences set among park-like grounds with over 200 mature palms, citrus groves, and sweeping mountain views.
The 7,500-square-foot main residence is centered around a stunning Italian rotunda with hand-painted ceilings and offers four bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and a series of grand living spaces including a formal foyer, parlor bar, executive office, and chef’s kitchen. The estate is enclosed by handcrafted stone walls and enhanced by manicured lawns, fountains, and private pathways connecting the guest homes. With its scale, pedigree, and preserved architectural integrity, Villa Paradiso represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a true Palm Springs legacy estate in one of its most celebrated neighborhoods.
Listed by Ernie Carswell Sotheby's International Realty #01111566
611 N Phillips Rd., Palm Springs
$ 10,500,000
Located in The Movie Colony, the Abernathy House is a rare and significant example of mid-century modern architecture by renowned desert modernist William F. Cody. Recently designated as a Class 1 Historic Resource—the highest level of local historic recognition—the home is permanently protected for its architectural importance and exceptional state of preservation. What makes this property especially remarkable is its distinctive geometric floor plan, a signature design element that sets it apart even among Palm Springs’ notable modernist homes.
Dramatic 26-foot ceilings clad in sandblasted Douglas fir, expansive walls of glass, and original terrazzo flooring create a powerful sense of scale while maintaining a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape and mountain views. The home is not only architecturally significant but also highly livable and adaptable for modern use. A recently updated kitchen featuring Poggenpohl cabinetry and Gaggenau appliances integrates contemporary functionality without compromising the original design intent. As one of the finest preserved works by William Cody, this estate represents a rare opportunity to own a true architectural masterwork—where historical significance, design innovation, and modern livability converge.
Listed by P S Properties Bennion Deville Homes #1726623T
1850 Smoke Tree Lane, Palm Springs
$ 6,900,000
Located within the storied Smoke Tree Ranch, the Blankenhorn-Gilmore Residence is a landmark property and designated Class 1 Historic Resource. Established in the 1930s as one of Palm Springs’ earliest private residential enclaves, Smoke Tree Ranch was envisioned as an exclusive, low-density retreat blending Western character with architectural integrity—a legacy that continues today.
Built in 1930 by architect Garrett Van Pelt Jr. and later expanded by modernist icon Albert Frey, this 5-bedroom, 7-bath estate served as the original architectural foundation for the Ranch. Spanning approximately 5,500 square feet on nearly two deeded acres plus an additional view lot, the home embodies the “Romance of the Old West” with its classic ranch-style design, board-and-batten exterior, and strong horizontal lines.
Interiors showcase rustic sophistication with exposed beam ceilings, rich wood paneling, and a dramatic floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace, while expansive windows frame sweeping mountain views. Outdoors, a private pool and spa complete the serene setting.
Once owned by Smoke Tree Ranch’s principal developer, L. Mac Blankenhorn, this exceptional property offers a rare opportunity to own a foundational piece of Palm Springs history within one of its most exclusive communities. Listed by P S Properties Bennion Deville Homes #1726623T
Palm Springs has always been a place where imagination meets possibility—where architecture, lifestyle, and landscape come together in ways that feel almost cinematic. These homes are more than just real estate; they’re expressions of vision, history, and the art of living well. Even if “money no object” feels like a stretch today, it’s worth allowing yourself to dream a little—because every great purchase starts with a vision.
And when the time comes—whether you’re exploring what’s possible, seeking something extraordinary, or ready to make a move—the Paul Kaplan Group is here to guide you. With deep roots in the luxury market and access to both on-market and off-market opportunities through our connection with Bennion Deville Homes’ Luxe Division, we’re uniquely positioned to help you find not just a home, but the home.
In Palm Springs, the right property doesn’t just change your address—it elevates your entire lifestyle.
